Tanks to the hard work being done by meat processors and flavor companies, consumers don’t have to tolerate bland, tasteless meat for dinner; likewise, they don’t have to run the risk of overspicing something to the point that it is inedible.
Meat and seafood are moving away from their traditional place as center-of-the-plate featured offerings as shoppers seek meals that are more creative, cost-effective and quicker to prepare.
Lower-sodium options are becoming commonplace in the center store. Proteins with the health claim are less prominent — but expansion opportunities remain.
As interest in more natural products continues to grow, bacteriophages (phages) — basically viruses that kill bacteria — have become particularly appealing.
The lunch menu is changing — whether at restaurants, work or schools — due to a recovering economy, high protein prices, increased focus on ethnic cuisine or health.